On The Way By Kike de Santo

 

On The Way

By

Kike de Santo

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

The sublime nature of texture is of vital importance when constructing an instrumental composition, setting the scene musically and capturing the listeners imagination doubly so, here on this brand new offering from Kike de Santo called On The Way, he does just that and more on an exploratory new single that is deeply compelling.

The start of the composition is felt carefully and with a tentative narrative that literally lures the listener in, this is a crafted mastery on its own, but the added percussion added to the swirling keyboards and synths just added that extra layer of expectation into the weave of the arrangement.

The tempo to this new creation is sublime, and at times reminded me of Vangelis with its imploring keyboard energies and its vast quality of textures, it is also a total pleasure to immerse oneself into a composition of a decent time span of just short of 6 minutes, in these days of micro manifestations, the listener has a real chance within this single of actually getting into the project.

With its ever onward structures and its mysterious tone and timbre, I truly believe that On The Way by Kike de Santo is going to burst into the charts like a musical comet tearing across our skies; if you ever wanted to hear an example of top quality keyboard based instrumental music, then this new single from Kike is going to blow you away.

We Are Angels By Faith Rumer & David Vito Gregoli

 

We Are Angels

By

Faith Rumer & David Vito Gregoli

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

A new genre is manifesting from the devotional and inspirational ranks of musical plenitude, some called it New Age Pop, some New Age Vocal, regardless this is a powerful statement now being made in the business, and one that must be listened to at all costs, We Are Angels by Faith Rumer & David Vito Gregoli is but one of those offerings, and certainly one that stands out with a musical prowess that is very impressive.

Equally as impressive on this new song is the vast array of instrumentation used upon it, but why am I not surprised, as David Vito Gregoli is one of the finest multi-instrumentalists in the business, and on We Are Angels Rumer has that background that has been birthed solidly in the high end of the market, featuring stints with bands like Earth Wind and Fire and Rod Stewart in some of the biggest stages in the world, here is a singer who has power, poise and intent.

The song builds to perfection and Rumer’s vocals that are so passion filled and poignant to lead us to a potential of a promised land called hope, and in doing so they shine like a beacon through the mists of fear that now envelop this globe,. This is a masterful new single that indeed manifests an energy of the so called New Age Pop genre that we foresaw coming a while ago, and even touching on the hem of a soft rock styled opus, not to far removed from bands like Heart and the vocals of Ann Wilson.

We Are Angels by Faith Rumer & David Vito Gregoli is a song that has hit written all over it, and I have every faith that this beauty of an emotive release is going to power up the charts with ease, this is one of those songs that is totally undeniable.

The Ground By Hallvard Godal featuring Richard Burgess

 

The Ground

By

Hallvard Godal featuring Richard Burgess

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

What maybe a little known fact, is that back at the end of the last century I cut my radio presentation teeth by hosting a show on local radio in the UK called One World Party, there weren’t many stations broadcasting World music in 1998 in the UK, now also my first love would happen to be progressive rock, however I would have to wait some 20 years before hosting a prog show on radio, but here today I have the best of both worlds and more, as I take a look The Ground by Hallvard Godal featuring Richard Burgess.

This refreshing new release contains the artistic vocals of Richard Burgess, which at times reminded me of the band Caravan way back in the day, but mixed with an Afro Beat styled percussive rhythm, with regard to that take a listen to the opening piece entitled Hello Hello as an example.

This 9 track album is packed with inventive and exciting new offerings that bridge many styles and cross many genres; Inert takes us into a prog rock manifested global fusion of both Peter Gabriel and perhaps even Osibisa. There are so many eclectic offerings on this album, one that took my ear and eye would be the title track The Ground, a fast paced offering that powers ever onward with the added electronic wizardry that is contained within.

There is literally a multitude of instrumentation upon this stunning album, including, and unusually, the Banjo courtesy of Kim Johannesen on Spinning His Way, this for me was a sublime composition, containing a globally fused manifestation and the ever classy voice of Burgess almost giving us an Ian Anderson moment.

I have to admit being a prog fan and with my back ground, listening to The Ground by Hallvard Godal is somewhat of a guilty pleasure, and its albums like this that keep me going in a world of banality in main stream music, the concluding gift of musical greatness truly reminded me of Gabriel and perhaps Red Rain, the mixture of pop, prog and world vibes all rolled into one gloriously sumptuous offering on the track Not In Range.

The Ground by Hallvard Godal featuring Richard Burgess was just what I needed; its artistically nuanced manifestations were a refreshing and somewhat reassuring collection of craft-fully created compositions for me to hear, we must also pay homage to the band and their incredibly eclectic collections of instrumentations, Hallvard Godal, harmonium, mellotron, saxophone, clarinet, backing vocals and synths, Steinar Nickelsen synth & Hammond B3 organ, Nikolai Hængsle bass, Erik Nylander drums & percussion and of course the aforementioned Kim Johannesen on banjo.

If you are a music lover who simply craves for something fresh, new and exciting, then you must seek out this album, as The Ground by Hallvard Godal featuring Richard Burgess will give you that sense and taste of musical satisfaction you haven’t had for simply years.

Iniciatic Times By NEORACLE

 

Iniciatic Times

By

NEORACLE

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

This is one of those rare singles that might be worth gazing at the art work whilst listening to it, this is indeed a grand opus of great glory by NEORACLE called Iniciatic Times, one that perhaps falls into the bracket or genres of both Neo Classical and Soundtrack, and it is certainly worthy of both.

The powerful mysterious opening and its harmonic ethereal vocals reminded me of the band 2002 back in their early days, the symphonic gestures combined beautifully with the vocalisations were delicious, but as the piece moved on, one could feel the regal nature of this dramatic piece take hold and take us to a different place entirely. The prince and princess come home perhaps, then towards the latter half of the release the tempo ramps up to an almost rock opera status, this I believe must be one of the most unique and exciting new singles I have had the pleasure to review this year, and most certainly is worthy of an opportunity of a movie segment.

Iniciatic Times by NEORACLE is that empowering offering you have been waiting for, if you are a fan of truly splendid symphonic classically style music with a modern twist, then this new single must make its way onto your playlist of choice, or into your musical library at all costs, it is stunning, go get a copy now!

The Lost Tracks By Richard Dillon

 

The Lost Tracks

By

Richard Dillon

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

The finding of lost things can be an emotionally charged event, I have done it myself and the memories of their creation can literally take one back decades in mood and in emotion, here on this wonderful new album Richard Dillion has done just that, re-found compositions once thought lost and brought them into the light of a new day for us all to enjoy, and a passionate ride of great feeling from the artist is one we are about to embark upon right now.

Lost Tracks starts with a hymn like beginning on the piece Arlington ft Neil Patton, Neil has joined Richard as a pianist on many of the tracks to support the artist’s physical issues with playing the piano, and on this and many others he has done a remarkable job.

This 15 track album, that in some ways reminds me of Jeff Bjork’s Keepsakes in the Attic release, is a reflective and memorable collection of sublime compositions. Here however the artist has opened a box of musical treasures that were once thought of as lost, and one of my favourite creations would be this next one called Crystal Rain ft Neil Patton, its mournful refrain contains a sense of sadness and reflective genius.

There are a few singles that have broken the landscape this year and come from this very album, the bright and sparkling reverie of Butterfly Dreams being but one, and then the passionate refrains of Cloudburst ft Neil Patton manifest a pouring down of notes from a dark and cloudy sky for us, in a crisp rain soaked offering of great quality.

The beauty of this album is that it literally contains something for everyone within it, different moods and feelings can be found behind every closed door now opened, like the amazing Don’t Go, a plea of a heart felt statement, the pondering and passion filled notes here moved me greatly, while on offerings like Echoes of a Broken Heart ft Neil Patton, we have a more tentative piece, one that is played with such a pristine touch by Patton, but composer Dillon must have been delighted with the deeply touching presentation on this heart-warming opus.

The darkness of late evening falls upon us now, and through the track Twilight we have a steady onward movement into the darkness of the night, a superb progression can be heard here from the artist, then on the following narrative entitled Putting Pen to Paper we can revisit another of the singles released earlier this year on an soundtrack styled composition of grandeur and style.

We now arrive at another offering that touched my heart deeply, and this one is called Faded Memories ft Neil Patton, the minor nature of this track fills me with the energy of memories I too am seeing beginning to fade of my past, as I get ever older and fortunately wiser, with the lessons of life learned.

Goodbye is another one of the singles released in 2024 and is next on our journey, this almost classically style arrangement moves us gently into the arms of Lullaby ft Neil Patton, here is a simply delightful creation, played with such calm and tenderness by Patton, so much so that it’s light and soothing narrative is indeed quietly meditative.

Then the most proud of all moments now as we arrive at the door marked title track, and through Lost we have a sensitive and moving piece that creates a lump in the throat, a flutter in the heart, and a tear in the corner of the eye. I have been lost in my time, and thus this piece of music could have easily have been the soundtrack for that, or those events of sadness and aloneness.

We are truly in the weave of this musical box of many lost treasures now, and as we arrive at this juncture we find a composition called Passage of Time, this has to be the most ambient offering from the album and the artist’s delicate presentation gifts us a moment of measured brilliance, a performance in the forests of evermore, in the very mists of time itself.

The penultimate track once again contains the deft touches of pianist Neil Patton and is called New Earth. I adore this composition; it has something we all need built within its structure, hope. This last but one offering could well be used in a movie segment one day to illustrate new beginnings and lessons learned.

So we are here, knocking on the last door of the album and this concluding creation is called Smokey Mountain Sunset.  If ever there was a sublime piece with which to end an album with this would be it, its energies capture many images and vistas of nature and its overall narrative, a beautiful textured and layered parting gift to thoroughly enjoy.

The Lost Tracks by Richard Dillon is indeed a treasure trove of brilliant music well found, we can all agree that the world of music, and especially the genre of piano will be all the better for it, for me I found this voyage cathartic and at times incredibly moving, this release deserves to be a massive hit and to garner a whole heap of plaudits along the way, so do yourself a favour and grab a copy of The Lost Tracks by Richard Dillon as quick as you can, it’s the album that the piano genre has waited an eon to find.

Spark By Antonija Pacek Written by Steve Sheppard

 

Spark

By

Antonija Pacek

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Antonija Pacek has proved she is a fine pianist over many years now, I have been following her progress since 2021, and her style has grown and become more melodic with each passing measure, so it is a pleasure now for me to take a look at her latest offering entitled Spark.

The gentleness of presentation is the first of many noteworthy things to say about this new composition, Spark has a slow but soothing musical narrative that flows like a mountain stream in April, in fact as I listen to this arrangement beautiful visions of lush natural landscapes spawn from my mind’s eye.

Pacek’s infused romantic values also come to the fore here in this most tranquil yet heart-warming of creations, perhaps Spark is the first fragile moments of love aspiring to be more, whatever, this is a fine performance from the pianist, one that I am sure will be adored by the solo piano genre and it’s fans as a whole.

Spark by Antonija Pacek is a solo piano single that lifts the mood and calms the soul, at times reminding one of a love theme from a movie, and at other times an almost meditative segment of blissful peace, regardless I believe that this new manifestation is going to be a big hit for the artist, and so it should be.

Pink Moon Magic By Adelynn Shan Lee

 

Pink Moon Magic

By

Adelynn Shan Lee

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

There are times when you need a little solitude, a slice of peace, perhaps a meditative sanctuary that you can reside within and just be solidly in the moment, solo flute tracks of a high quality such as Pink Moon Magic by Adelynn Shan Lee can help you achieve that goal.

I have long adored truly good solo flute artists, from Nigel Shaw, to Rodrigo Rodriguez from Deuter to Hiroki Okano; each have a special place in my musical heart, and for bringing me locations of tranquillity and sanctuaries of the soul, this new single from Adelynn Shan Lee called Pink Moon Magic would fit nicely among those luminaries.

Those beautifully lush tones of the artists flute seem to drift over far away landscapes, and manifest an almost meditative vibrational tone as it goes, this is high class solo flute performed by someone who most certainly feels every nuance of her creation.

Pink Moon Magic by Adelynn Shan Lee is a stunningly haunting, yet riveting composition, and to prove the point I listened to it four times in a row before I had realised. This is music to manifest a place of solitude where the mind can unwind and be at peace and just breathe, this is top notch work from Adelynn and as such deserves to be a huge hit.

Eclosion (Emerging from the Chrysalis) By Craigology

 

Eclosion (Emerging from the Chrysalis)

By

Craigology

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Craigology is back with a brand new single and this one is as charming as an October sunset, it is packed with uplifting refrains and grows with each passing measure in what must be the artist’s best release thus far and called Eclosion (Emerging from the Chrysalis).

The performance contained within is spot on the subject matter; the slow and cautious start begins to evolve into a more confident piece, the delicacy of the piano is won over by the added orchestration and a symbiosis of tone is created.

This is incredibly well thought out for such a short form release, the course is set for the crescendo to be a victory for the life form, but the progression from chrysalis has to be spot on and Craigology does it with such style and panache, so much so a full orchestral delight herald’s the concluding emergence with an almost regal posture of a truly grand nature, and all in 138 seconds!

I believe this to be the best work thus far from the artist and I believe fans of good instrumental music and emerging neo classical countenances such as this, will be both enthralled and extremely pleased with Eclosion (Emerging from the Chrysalis) by Craigology, it is brilliant.

Silent Heart By Kerani

 

Silent Heart

By

Kerani

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

The foundation of all that is beautiful can be found on this new release by Kerani entitled Silent Heart.  For me this album is about finding those quiet spaces within you in a world that has gone literally crazy, those silent moments we can all find deep inside, and thus this very album is an anthem for solitude, and a sanctuary of truth and peace.

The opening composition is deeply moving, and is the proud title track Silent Heart. The textured layers of piano and orchestration give us our directions to a peaceful mind along the corridors of confusion, emphasised by the creative minor segments within the arrangement.

This release is a far more piano based album by the artist, and as such the keys caress a more delicate palate of tone and timbre, the soft orchestration adds to that tapestry of touching melodies and moods, like on the offerings Colour the World and Solitude, both utterly splendid pieces, but both bathed in a determination to seek balance and tranquillity.

It is through a desire to want better, that through our meditative explorations, we can know better, and thus eventually do better. I was amazingly moved by a track that made me think of that and it’s called Tides of Emotion, and nestled blissfully towards the latter half of the album, this is such a powerful offering that one could easily imagine our tears cleansing our fears to this soundtrack of stunning abundant quality.

One must say great things about the symbiotic balance between the orchestration and the piano of Kerani on this album; she has utterly nailed the juxtaposition of her piano performance and the symphonic arrangements, in fact to a point that each composition is a harmonious delight to listen to, an example of which can be found on the concluding piece called Anthem, if ever an album was an anthem for the peace seeker then this is it, and this grand yet lush piece must be the soundtrack for that ultimate desire.

Silent Heart by Kerani is not a step in a different direction for the artist; it is a musical evolution in motion, it is a cathartic collection of moving tones that see her growth and progression in the genre of neo classical music. There is a true sense of honesty in this whole album that the world should embrace, as it truly seeks a place of quietude and serenity, a warm safe home where the beating of a single heart, a Silent Heart of oneness can be heard and embraced, as such, this release will be a major hit on the charts, and should be welcomed by all seeking sanctuary in music.

Your Tenderness By Richard Goldsworthy

 

Your Tenderness

By

Richard Goldsworthy

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Richard Goldsworthy is a remarkable pianist; I have enjoyed many of his compositions over the last couple of years and I am more than glad to say he is back with another new single, and this time entitled Your Tenderness. This title is so well made, as the pianist pulls off one of the most tender and sensitive performances thus far.

A gentle hand at the tiller is always needed when producing an offering of this elk, and Goldsworthy does it with sublime precision, the slow and tempered approach allows for a little uplifting energy as we move towards the half way juncture of the arrangement. Then we are in the flow of a new and charming energy that allows for a louder passage, and then a pulling back of once again pin point precision to conclude this most beautiful of songs.

It is indeed very rare to hear a piece like this that is created with such heart and true honest thoughtfulness, and as such, music like this, and presentations of solo piano like this, must surely come from a sincere place, a home of unconditional love and truth.

So here we are again with another masterful moment from the musician, Your Tenderness by Richard Goldsworthy could well be his best so far, but each composition I hear from the artist I also believe that to be true, never the less this one is sure to make a huge impression with the listeners and on the charts, it absolutely deserves to do so.

She's So Sweet By Keith Fiala

 

She's So Sweet

By

Keith Fiala

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

This composition has to be the most unique I have reviewed for quite some time, as I listen to the smooth vibrancy of Jazz musician Keith Fiala and his brand new offering entitled She’s So Sweet. This has a quality about it that is incredibly addictive.

This multi-instrumental new release contains a range of keyboards, pertinent percussion, and of course the extremely sweet Trumpet of Fiala, the slow build and progression is a real treat here and for me it reminds me of many journey’s and places I have travelled, driving through the night, past the city lights, the tempo, the pace and the steady onward energy gives me such fond recollections.

The huge symbol in the middle of this piece was cleverly placed as was the spoken audio that went with it, and then we were off again on an ever on going journey of instrumental magic from the artist. A sublime chord progression and a pastiche of textures and tonal brilliance can all be found within this new release from Fiala.

She's So Sweet by Keith Fiala is a smooth ride of wonderful colours and is a tapestry of charm and a composition of chilled contentment, this is one of those tracks to press play to at the end of your day while you wind down with a delicious coffee, and simply breathe in the moment.

Ley Lines By Michelle Qureshi

 

Ley Lines

By

Michelle Qureshi

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

I have always been an admirer of the work of Michelle Qureshi; she has a sense of ambience like few others, and here today I am so blessed to be reviewing her latest single called Ley Lines, a subject that I must admit I have found fascinating for most of my life.

The idea of "leys" as straight tracks “energy pathways” across the landscape was put forward by the English antiquarian Alfred Watkins in the 1920s, particularly in his book The Old Straight Track, here Michelle Qureshi takes that subject and manifests one of the most compelling compositions relating to it and to be honest, I don’t recall another, so that also makes it for me, unique.

Once again she is spot on, we have one single Ley that lies just off the bottom of our island here in Cyprus, and when I gaze at the ocean that it touches I apply this composition to it and it fits perfectly, the slow soft pastiche of guitars and extremely gentle synths manifests a track so very redolent of the subject matter, and births an energy of a sublime nature.

This is one of those pieces I could listen to forever and I would never tire of it, Qureshi has not only created something timeless here, I believe she has brought into being one of her best singles of all time, this should be a huge hit for the artist and as such this is a must listen and purchase at all costs, acoustic guitar ambient music never sounded so good.

The Seeker By Bob Yonker

 

The Seeker

By

Bob Yonker

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Bob has been on my musical radar from 2019, and each time a new album is released we get another compilation of superior solo piano music that is not only beautiful, but artistically crafted, and one that contains a lake full of serenity and tone. So Bob Yonker is back with another new release entitled The Seeker, and we can be reassured with the knowledge that his course is still set fair, and into a land of tranquil descriptive piano music like never before.

The opening though has to be my favourite piece of Bobs so far and called Breath Of Spirit, this is one of those timeless reveries that you never wish to end, in fact it moved me so much I have now played it three times alone, sorry make that four, the soft chords and notes grow and fall back like a summer tide, the misty thoughtful and reflective nuances within this track make it my personal favourite from the album, it is beautifully meditative in the best possible way.

The release itself contains 12 bliss solo piano compositions; there are pieces like An Inner Peace, a composition that allows you to draw an extra breath and enjoy the moment, the repeating motif here is charming and the melody even sweeter. There are also many cheer filled moments on offerings like The Clouds Lift, a composition that would perhaps make a good television show theme, and the ebullient Journey To Joy.

There are segments of memory that move like a spring stream within this new release, the freedom of tracks like Waterfall, a simple, yet pleasing creation, and the most charming of all, another personal favourite of mine in the stunning River Of Grace, a track that reminded me of my friend David Lanz, that magical and lyrical flow is there, this one piece would make a superb single, it has a sense of the dramatic, but holds itself within its confines so very beautifully and is an absolute charmer.

The concluding offering is called Homecoming and if ever a track did in tone exactly what the title offers then this is it, a warm hug of a composition lays here, whilst our concluding arrangement Crystalline gifts us a moment to reflect and take in our musical journey with the artist, its pristine and careful nature allows us to float with grace, and be grateful for what we have just listened to.

I feel I have to say that The Seeker by Bob Yonker is the best work of the artist thus far; each track is carefully created to bring the optimum peace and tranquillity to the listeners mind heart and soul, with ease this is one of the most creative solo piano albums I have heard this year, and is a total pleasure to listen to, I feel certain that others will agree with me, and send The Seeker by Bob Yonker sailing up the charts, where it absolutely deserves.

Astris by Iasi Ensemble

 

Astris

By

Iasi Ensemble

Written by

Andy Rogers

 

World Music as a genre continues to explore new musical territories and open minds as never before. This exciting debut album from Iasi Ensemble continues to do just that with some style. Iasi means “healing”, and the ensemble says that it “hopes to soothe the souls of people with their unique blend of music”. 

The album features musicians from India, Iran, Kurdistan and Greece and as a result the music is an exhilarating blend of instruments and voices from the different countries involved. At times reminiscent of Indian classical music, at others it sounds like it came out of Bollywood… all this is suffused with middle-eastern influences from Iran and Kurdistan alongside synths and more from Greece… add to the mix some throat singing and a dash of didgeridoo and you see that this is an extraordinary collection of songs! 

We start with Whirling Desert: the sound of cicadas and a low synth sets the scene before an entrancing Indian vocal leads us into the song with the band playing sitar, tabla, tanbour and much more. Fans of such bands as Suns of Arqa will find much to love here.    

The two shorter tracks Dancing with the Unknown & Lake of the Heart sound very like things George Harrison would have done with The Beatles – think “Within You Without You” from Sergeant Pepper and you get the idea!

Symphony of Soil and Symphony of Wind are two tracks played back to back and very similar in style. The first stays mid-tempo throughout and features emotive vocals, the second is more like an Indian Raga – instrumental all through, it is beautifully played by all with a build in tempo; slow at the start building to a wonderfully colourful and musically dramatic finish.

Summer to Rain, the next track on the album, is a slow reflective piece. A steady drone underlays some vibrant sitar work before the piece ends on a rather atmospheric note.

Next we have Sea of Fire, a peel of wind-chimes introduces another exquisite Indian vocal before the music assumes a more Middle-Eastern feel as the tabla and other instruments join… the whole piece has a sad and melancholy feel as the vocalist holds long notes over an increasingly lively backing before the track ends on the sound of a rain-stick.

Astris the title track is a wonderful instrumental and possibly my personal favourite on the album… again, wind-chimes start the track followed by some very nice interplay between sitar and wind instruments which leads into a section featuring bass guitar, percussion and more. Eventually a clash of cymbals marks the start of the end section with sitar and tabla to the fore.

Dark Cloud is the longest track on the album at 31 minutes. It starts with a long section with Sitar and Digeridoo much to the fore. The lively middle section brings in the Sitar, tanbour and more…The end section returns to the sitar & didgeridoo from the start before a change in tempo heralds the entrance of tabla and more percussion to take us in an ever accelerating whirl to the end of the track.

Following an alternative mix of Whirling Desert we come to the last track on the album, Panchagni (The 5 fires). The sound of a rain-stick leads us into a contemplative mantra-like vocal with sitar and tabla providing an atmospheric backing. A change to mid-tempo heralds a beautiful sitar/tabla/drone section before the vocalist re-joins and the track moves towards the end with a dramatic increase in tempo.

It’s a long album (nearly two hours) but sufficiently full of musical invention to keep you wanting to hear more. Fans of “World Fusion” music will lap this up - It’s an impressive debut album and I one that I hope does really well for them. We can only hope we hear a lot more of Iasi Ensemble in future. 

Everything We Live For By David Clavijo

 

Everything We Live For

By

David Clavijo

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

There is very passionate new release from multi-instrumentalist David Clavijo, whether on guitar or piano David’s professionalism and his flair for producing quality instrumental music stands strong. Here on his brand new single entitled Everything We Live For, he perhaps reminds us of how much gratitude we should have for the world we live on, but also remind us that life and its tides of existence, is something that is shared by us all.

The flow and sublime tempo with which the pianist performs here is literally unstoppable, but even so Clavijo still is able to mould colours, and textures into a tapestry of great beauty and fervour. This is a masterful presentation, filled full of intensity, passion and dedication.

The subtle musical narrative in the pieces inception leads us into a veritable whirlwind of a performance; this would certainly be one amazing composition to see played live, but there are also moments of pause, to ponder perhaps, to reflect, and then we are off once more to its dramatic, but charming conclusion.

Everything We Live For by David Clavijo is a power piece, it is a single of perhaps philosophical significance, one that may assist us in uniting as a species, as humanity, just to go simply into the day with the flow of life, this performance does that perfectly, and is indeed some of the most fluent solo piano I have heard this year with ease.  

Putting Pen to Paper by Richard Dillon

 

Putting Pen to Paper

By

Richard Dillon

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

This new single by Richard Dillon has to be one of the most fascinating opuses I have ever heard from the artist, this is a true trip through music, one that has a flavoursome texture and rich motifs of musical colour, and called Putting Pen to Paper.

The steady and careful start was a delight and gave us not only a charming piano to bathe within, but also a symphonic backdrop of supreme quality to enjoy as well; in short, this entire single is a master class of build and progression.

Putting Pen to Paper is like watching an ancient quill manifesting a statement; the measures are long and protracted, but the progression is onward and always with such style and care, this is one of those singles that will find a home in your mind and never leave, leaving the listener with the melody in their senses for simply ages.

The sublime quality of this new single Putting Pen to Paper, should attract those who adore their music from not only the world of piano, but also perhaps the Neo Classical as well, there is pretty much something in this new single for everyone to enjoy, and as such I believe this could very well tickle the musical taste buds of many potential purchaser and listener, and therefore I see a soaring chart position come of its inevitable attention.

Mothership By Michael Regina

 

Mothership

By

Michael Regina

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

I remember looking back at the Exit Zero album of Michaels and I thought to myself, here is a musician who is going places, now with the release of his brand new album entitled Mothership I believe that I was right, this is an exciting 10 track release that literally takes you on a journey though the stars, so let’s voyage right now with Michael Regina, full ahead, make it so.

The opening piece is a great scene setter and is proudly the title track, and of course called Mothership, the growling of the engines as the ship starts to move is impressive, and the regal like synths give a texture to the soaring craft, one of complete wonderment, this is a stylish opening indeed.

The flow between tracks is compelling; we have an ever onward narrative from offerings like Exodus, a track that really reminds me of Medwyn Goodall’s Essence of Magic album. The full on keyboard driven tale continues with tracks like the gentler Mind's Eye, with its inventive percussion and soft synth pads and into moments of rhythmic passion and powerful forward movement with pieces like Transmissions, just listen to the bass in this amazing composition.

In the deeper realms of this album we can find glorious creations like Space Funk Maestro, the title speaks for itself, but there is a smoothness and fluency here that is very classy indeed, our penultimate offering is called Proxima Centauri a star just over 4 lights years from us on Earth, this red dwarf is portrayed beautifully by Regina, and we can almost feel our engines going faster through the music as we head inexorably towards its destination.

Finally Michael concludes his project with the illustrious arrangement of The Farthest Point, a subtle intelligent ending opus that rounds our mission up completely, with a wonderful balance and a mixture of percussion, keyboards and synths, all done with such class and panache.

I think it’s safe to say that on Mothership, Michael Regina has produced his best work this far, here is an album that would please so many, fans of the new age, electronic, and space genres are going to be elated with this new manifestation, and I feel that Michael has indeed crossed the musical Rubicon with this new conception, and as such a whole new era of opportunities will open up before him in the most abundant of ways, and we can be certain that a huge chart position is going to be on the cards at the very least.

Promises Unspoken By John Hamilton

 

Promises Unspoken

By

John Hamilton

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

There is a lush fluency about this new single from John Hamilton that you simply can’t fail to miss; it comes at a time when the artist is in a rich vein of form, and called Promises Unspoken. Hamilton’s ability to draw musical narratives and pictures within his stunning performances is a thing of great beauty.

Here on this brand new single we have a composition that illustrates a promise that needs not to be said, in the same way as the only form of true love is unconditional. Here there is an almost hidden secret bond that lies between the notes of this most charming and incredibly warm offering, ones that float in the land of trust, and touch the hem of loyalty.

Hamilton’s performance is so very amiable and delightfully elegant; this is one of those solo piano performances that just make you want to smile widely inside, it is a track bathed in the warm sunshine of a tender refrain.

A note to all piano fans, this is a single that you will find impossible to deny getting a copy of, and when you do, you will be much happier to have embraced its compassionate kindness and tranquil energies that lay within this outstanding composition.

Promises Broken By John Hamilton

 

Promises Broken

By

John Hamilton

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

John Hamilton impressed me incredibly with his previous single entitled Prayer: Gratitude, and now his back with more new offerings the first of which I will cover in this review and called Promises Broken. Many of us have been in relationships that have ended in promises being broken, and it is incredibly sad when one reflects on the occurrence, how easily is it we get swept away with life and fail to be grateful for our moments of love respect.

John’s performance on the piano here is incredibly reflective and deeply mournful, and in a way is almost a voyage back in time to the start of the relationship, and perhaps even a soundtrack for the heart breaking events that will follow; the minor styled motifs of this performance is truly touching, and encapsulates the subject matter and the mood perfectly.

The more you hear the music and presentations of John Hamilton, the more you will embrace his colourful, yet respectful style, here is a man who clearly feels his music, and it is so refreshing to see and hear. Promises Broken by John Hamilton should be embraced utterly by piano fans across the globe, it may even be worthy of a segment in a movie scene too, it is that good.

Hush By ENILSounds

 

Hush

By

ENILSounds

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

This is one of the moments I delight in, a new artist to me personally and what a blessing it is as well, and in a new genre now lovingly called New Age Pop, a phrase that Chrissie and I came up with many months ago, and now it seems like the whole thing has caught on big time, so much so that songs like Hush by Danish songstress and musician extraordinaire Line Munch-Petersen AKA ENILSounds, are pushing the boundries of new age music like never before.

Hush is a lullaby for both children and adults, the texture of this song is sublime, and it reminded me of my time lying on the roof as a child watching the night sky and the limitless cosmos of stars above, those times seemed so warm and safe and all-encompassing back then.

Perhaps songs like Hush are what we as humanity we need right now, a reassurance in a motherly way that everything is going to be alright, and that we may sleep free from angst and stress. The artists soaring vocals in the midway and latter half of this new composition are literally transcendent, but are balanced perfectly with the more gentle refrains and tones at the start and the conclusion.

Simply put, this is a splendid new single, one that everyone should embrace and enjoy, I am sure there will be much more to come from ENILSounds but for now I have a feeling that a massive chart hit is going to be underway very soon for Hush, it is indeed a lullaby for all, and a panacea for the masses. 

Once More By Andrea Sertori

 

Once More

By

Andrea Sertori

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

This brand new single by Andrea Sertori is something of a treat for the ears; this has to be the most sensitive and appealing offering from the artist thus far, his skills on the piano have grown over the years, and that amazing level of sensitivity is now coming to the fore, with a flash of colour, and a weave of perceptive artistry that can only be admired.

Once More is an uplifting composition that could be stating something arduous has to be undertaken, but just once more, and perhaps this new single is that extra boost to help one through. The presentation and performance by Sertori on the piano is nothing less than heart-warming, it’s akin to a musical hug.

Andrea Sertori has wooed us with many creations over the last few years, but here on Once More I think we have the apex of his current collection, this one will appeal to many listeners and streamers the globe over, its compassionate energy and its thoughtful performance, should make this a much sought after solo piano single, and as such I can see this composition finding favour with the listeners and in doing so, gaining a truly decent chart position with ease.

Spring Equinox: Piano Meditations By Richard Shulman

 

Spring Equinox: Piano Meditations

By

Richard Shulman

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

This has to be one of the most unique and quite frankly exciting collections of quality music I have heard via the medium of the solo piano genre for ages, Spring Equinox: Piano Meditations by Richard Shulman, this album contains some of the most descriptive and textured pieces you would ever wish to find on an album of this elk, and to do so using the mechanism of the long form style on many creations contained within needs applauding.

The longest manifestation and the opening piece is called Light Increases; through my life I have listened to much music that describes times of day and moments of the clock, Shulman adds to those weighty musical occasions with a lush and quite evocative 13 minutes plus on this marvellous starting voyage, the slow and gentle approach highlights one of the most splendid segments in life, as each day the sun rises and gives birth to another day of possibilities.

Spring Melody is up next, this is a moment of harmonic bliss, but then again much could be said about the entire album. Again Shulman plays with intent, but with a calm approach, one that touches the very hem of nature itself as it becomes one again with the Earth, and slowly sprouts into a new epoch of colours and tones. This piece emphasises that aforementioned statement with one of the most creative solo piano performances ever.

Colors, takes us on another voyage of piano perfection with a track that is a step into a world of utter beauty and blissful ambience, one that reminds me of the works of the late but still great Harold Budd. The sense of peace within this track is quite palpable and this wonderfully fluent performance drifts on the winds of a musical tomorrow with all the anticipation of a tranquil and happy future.

This is one of those albums you simply want to never end, thankfully we have another all-enveloping composition up now called Planting Seeds, this has to be the most delicate presentation from the pianist, the slow and careful performance highlights the subject matter with a flourish, and the structures of major and minor are a wonder to behold.

Back to the longer styled tracks we now go with Awakening Life, this piece is the epitome of artistic foresight, at well over 7 minutes in duration Richard literally manifests that moment in spring that we all love to see, the bursting forth of new life upon our globe, this joyous performance is a simple but attractive delight.

One of the most valued aspects of moving on in life is the ability to understand what is meant when one comprehends the perception of actually Letting Go. This moving composition transcends the melody that can be found within the middle part of this arrangement, and takes us musically to a place of release and in such a crafted way, again the use of minor structures here are simply sublime.

We now move ever deeper into the weave of this great collection of fine solo piano works, and as we do so we come across a piece called Healing Spirit, the soothing ethos of this pleading creation is filled with a passion and serene touch of unconditional love, Shulman asks his piano to harmonise with his muse and the result is a curative and cathartic experience.

With a track just short of seven minutes we are gifted a ride into a realm of a tranquil garden of many delights, one of the most colourful images we will witness here is the uplifting piano performance that describes in music for us the Peace Flowers that dance gentle with an early spring breeze, this is a magical presentation form the artist and one we are most grateful for.

Amazingly we have arrived at the last but one gate in our woodland of musical spring delights, the track that ushers forth that moment is well named and called Blessing. This is a truism for me as I feel that it has indeed been a blessing to have been able to have listened to a track and an album of such great quality.

Our final parting gift from the artist is called Resting in the Light, the artist saves his most calming of musical reverie till last, and we can part on a soothing wave of a warm spring wind, and as a charming scent of a most pleasant summer is held potentially before us, this has to be one of the finest and most delicate ambient piano performances I have heard to conclude an album with for simply years.

Spring Equinox: Piano Meditations by Richard Shulman is an outstanding album in the times when most solo piano tracks are barely 2 minutes long, to be able to listen to an album of this magnitude and brilliance was utterly delightful. This is a release that would be suited for fans of many genres, from the ambient to new age and of course those who still seek creative artistic works of great style in the piano genre. I can see nothing but a successful outcome for Spring Equinox: Piano Meditations by Richard Shulman.